Admissions

We pride ourselves on our amazing community of scholars and practitioners from all over the world. SIPA students hail from every region, discipline, sector, and background, but are united by demonstrated academic excellence and professional focus. Here's what our Admissions Committee looks for in general, along with a few explicit requirements.

Applications for the upcoming calendar year will be available in late Summer. Each degree program has its own application deadlines and requirements, please review the programs' information carefully prior to applying. There is no separate application deadline for international students interested in applying to our programs.

For over 70 years, Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs has been educating professionals who work in public, private and nonprofit organizations to make a difference in the world. The SIPA Financial Aid Office is dedicated to helping its students explore all available means to finance their education.

Learn more about when admissions decisions are released, how to submit your enrollment deposit, what it means to be on the waitlist, and how the deferral process works.

SIPA is located on Columbia University's campus in Morningside Heights, a lively Manhattan neighborhood that bridges the Upper West Side and Harlem. Our home in the International Affairs Building is an energetic hub with some of the best views on campus. Come on by — we'd love to show you around!

To learn more about the admissions process, you are encouraged to review our Frequently Asked Questions.

Learn more about SIPA from those who know it best—our Seeples!